From Abba Kabara, Gusau.
The Minister of Defence Mansur Muhammad Dan-Ali has released a condolence massage to the government and people of Zamfara and Kaduna States over the recent attacks that claimed several lives.
A release signed by the public Relations Officer to the Defence minister Colonel Tukur Gusau, expresses the Minister’s deep concern and fervent prays to Almighty Allah to grant the souls of the victims an eternal rest and grant their families the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss.
The Minister however gave the assurance that the Armed Forces of Nigeria have remained committed and resolute in tackling the lingering security challenges across the country.
The Defence ministry according to the release, “remains committed to the protection of safety, lives and properties, as well as protecting the nation from both external and internal aggression.
In the release, General Dan Ali disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria is currently engaged in various Internal Security operations across the country, making concerted efforts in tackling the incessant killings by armed bandits and other criminal activities in the North-West, particularly in Zamfara and Kaduna states.
He however stressed that some of the efforts made by the Federal Government to tackling the prevailing challenge in the North-West include the creation of 8 Division, Nigerian Army in Sokoto and the establishment of a Brigade in Gusau and another one to be located in Birnin Kebbi.
According to him, the Nigerian Air Force Quick Response Force was established in Gusau to give air support to the ground troops.
In Addition, ” the 500 troops of Nigerian Armed Forces and 500 other security agents were recently deployed to join Operation SHARAN DAJI to curb the activities of armed bandits and other security challenges in Zamfara and Kaduna states and the region in general” he emphasized.
The minister also reveals that his Ministry has directed the General Officer Commanding 8 Division to relocate his Tactical Headquarters from Sokoto to Gusau to adequately coordinate activities of Operation SHARAN DAJI until normalcy returns in the State.
The minister however observes that the issue of drug abuse, unemployment and bad governance amongst others, contribute to the deplorable security situation in Zamfara State.
“It is therefore suggested that all the necessary stakeholders should come together and take necessary steps to address these issues and provide adequate support to security agencies for a maximum result”, he said.
